Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Tuscany to your table. With rich ricotta, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese, they make a perfect side or main dish for any gathering. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress at dinner parties or family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of creamy ricotta and fresh herbs delivers a delightful taste that is both comforting and refreshing.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side or main course, you can easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, these stuffed peppers are nutritious and satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: They store well in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for meal prep throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Brush for oiling

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the peppers, ensuring they bake uniformly.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all filling ingredients without spills.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Useful for quickly wilting spinach without taking up too much time or effort.

Ingredients

For the Peppers

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL)

For the Filling

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 15-oz tub ricotta cheese (425 g)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan (56 g)
• ½ cup sliced green onions (about 4 green onions)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 handful chopped flat-leaf parsley (aka Italian parsley)
• 1 tsp each dried rosemary, dried thyme, fennel seed, and salt (roughly smash the fennel seeds to release their flavor)
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 large eggs

For the Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). While it heats up, cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and ribs carefully. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Peppers

Brush all sides of each pepper half with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until they begin to soften. Once done, drain any excess water from inside each pepper. Reduce your oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the peppers bake, microwave fresh spinach in a microwave-safe bowl for about 15 to 30 seconds or until wilted down. After cooling slightly, chop it roughly. In a large mixing bowl, combine wilted spinach with all remaining filling ingredients—ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, green onions, basil, parsley, spices, pepper, and eggs.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Evenly fill each baked pepper half with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or spatula.

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake Again

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil until combined. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper. Return them to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown after this time, switch on the broiler briefly while watching closely until they achieve a beautiful golden color—this should take just a minute or two!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not just a delightful dish on their own; they can also be paired with various sides and toppings to enhance their flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes topped with basil for a refreshing Italian touch.

Topped with Sauces

• Tomato Sauce: A rich tomato sauce drizzled over the peppers adds moisture and depth of flavor.
• Pesto Drizzle: A sprinkle of basil pesto on top can bring an extra layer of herby goodness.

Accompanied by Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs complements the flavors in the stuffed peppers.
• Couscous Salad: A lemony couscous salad with diced vegetables makes for a hearty side.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Basil: Fresh herbs sprinkled on top brighten the dish and add freshness.
• Parmesan Shavings: Thin shavings of parmesan cheese can enhance the savory profile.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

To make your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers even more delicious, consider these helpful tips that can improve both flavor and presentation.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for a more vibrant taste compared to dried ones.
• Creamy Texture: Ensure ricotta is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother filling consistency.
• Proper Baking Time: Bake until the peppers are tender but not mushy; check them after 20 minutes at 400°F (204°C).
• Enhance with Cheese: Mix in additional cheese varieties like goat cheese or feta for unique flavor profiles.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed peppers sit for a few minutes post-baking; this helps set the filling and makes them easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Pairing your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any sauce from the peppers.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide great flavor contrast.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus tossed in olive oil adds freshness and crunch.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying side dish.
5. Risotto: Creamy risotto with peas or mushrooms pairs beautifully, adding richness to your plate.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles keep the meal light while adding texture.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of summer flavor that balances well with the savory peppers.
8. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors beautifully while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed peppers can be a delightful dish, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overbaking the Peppers: Cooking the peppers for too long can lead to mushiness. Bake them just until they soften slightly before stuffing.

• Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season your ricotta mixture can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before stuffing the peppers.

• Ignoring Drainage: If you skip draining excess water from the peppers after baking, it can make your filling watery. Make sure to drain properly for optimal texture.

• Skipping the Broiler Step: Not using the broiler at the end may leave your topping undercooked. Watch closely while broiling to achieve a golden-brown finish.

• Using Old Ingredients: Freshness matters in cooking! Using old or expired herbs and cheeses can dull the flavor of your dish. Always check ingredient freshness before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (176°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

How do I know when my stuffed peppers are done?

Cook your stuffed peppers until they are tender and the filling is hot throughout. The tops should be golden brown as well.

Can I customize the filling of Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or even switch up the cheese used in the filling for variety.

What should I serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair well with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra filling sauce.

Can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only tasty but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. They make for a delightful side dish or main course that everyone will enjoy!